Download AJA Io Express Specifications

www.aja.com
Published: 4/10/12
Installation and Operation
Guide
11
B e c a u s e
i t
m a t t e r s .
ii
Trademarks
AJA®, KONA®, Ki Pro®, KUMO®, and XENA® and are registered trademarks of AJA Video, Inc.
Io Express™, Io HD™, Io™, and Because It Matters™ are trademarks of AJA Video, Inc.
Apple, the Apple logo, AppleShare, AppleTalk, FireWire, iPod, iPod Touch, Mac, and
Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. Final Cut Pro, QuickTime and
the QuickTime Logo are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.
TASCAM is a registered trademark of TEAC Corporation.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.
Notice
Copyright © 2012 AJA Video, Inc. All rights reserved. All information in this manual is subject
to change without notice. No part of the document may be reproduced or transmitted in
any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording,
without the express written permission of AJA Inc.
Contacting Support
To contact AJA Video for sales or support, use any of the following methods:
180 Litton Drive, Grass Valley, CA. 95945 USA
Telephone: 800.251.4224 or 530.274.2048
Fax: 530.274.9442
Web: http://www.aja.com
Support Email: [email protected]
Sales Email: [email protected]
When calling for support, first read the Chapter on Troubleshooting at the back of this
manual. You can often save time and effort by looking there first for simple remedies and
information on how to get support from AJA and Apple Computer Inc.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Limited Warranty
Limited Warranty
AJA Video warrants that this product will be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of three years from the date of purchase. If a product proves
to be defective during this warranty period, AJA Video, at its option, will either repair
the defective product without charge for parts and labor, or will provide a replacement
in exchange for the defective product.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, you the Customer, must notify AJA Video
of the defect before the expiration of the warranty period and make suitable
arrangements for the performance of service. The Customer shall be responsible for
packaging and shipping the defective product to a designated service center
nominated by AJA Video, with shipping charges prepaid. AJA Video shall pay for the
return of the product to the Customer if the shipment is to a location within the
country in which the AJA Video service center is located. Customer shall be responsible
1
for paying all shipping charges, insurance, duties, taxes, and any other charges
for
products returned to any other locations.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by improper use
or improper or inadequate maintenance and care. AJA Video shall not be obligated to
furnish service under this warranty a) to repair damage resulting from attempts by
personnel other than AJA Video representatives to install, repair or service the product,
b) to repair damage resulting from improper use or connection to incompatible
equipment, c) to repair any damage or malfunction caused by the use of non-AJA Video
parts or supplies, or d) to service a product that has been modified or integrated with
other products when the effect of such a modification or integration increases the time
or difficulty of servicing the product.
THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN BY AJA VIDEO IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED. AJA VIDEO AND ITS VENDORS DISCLAIM ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. AJA VIDEO’S
RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE WHOLE AND
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY PROVIDED TO THE CUSTOMER FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER AJA VIDEO OR
THE VENDOR HAS ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
iii
iv
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Contents
Contents
Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Contacting Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iii
Chapter 1: Installation
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Accepted Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Using Multiple AJA Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1. . . . . . . . 2
About Primary & Secondary Video Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Playback Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Io Express Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Software for Mac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Software for Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
What’s In The Box? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Minimum and Recommended System and Software Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Cable Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Connector Descriptions—Io Express & Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
In This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Chapter 2: Installation
Installation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Connecting to your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Cabling the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Typical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Installing Io Express Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Mac Pro Software Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Windows Software Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Re-Installation & Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Genlock and Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Chapter 3: Operation
Using KONA 3G with Professional Video /Audio Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Using the AJA Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Control Panel Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Control Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Format Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Input Select Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
SDI Out Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
HDMI Tab Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Analog Out Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Video Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Audio Setup Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Conversion Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Timecode Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
1
2
Firmware Tab Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Info Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Who is Controlling Io Express? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Using 8-bit Versus 10-bit Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Chapter 4: Troubleshooting
If You Run Into Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Updating Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Apple Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Appendix A: Specifications
Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Video Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Video Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Audio Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Audio Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Reference Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Machine Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Appendix B: Safety & Compliance
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Class A Interference Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
FCC Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Canadian ICES Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
European Union and European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
Regulatory Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Korean Compliance Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Taiwan Compliance Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Japanese Compliance Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Translated caution statements, warning conventions and warning messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Before operating your AJA unit, read the instructions in this document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Index
Chapter 1: Introduction
Edge Shot Photo Here
Overview
Io Express is the perfect cross-platform, Mac or PC, interface for anyone who needs an
inexpensive monitoring and mastering solution when working with Apple ProRes Formats,
XDCAM HD, DVCPRO HD, and more. Portable and simple to use, Io Express is ideal for filebased workflows.
Features
The Io Express package includes the following features:
• HD/SD-SDI input and output
• HDMI 1.3a input and output
• Component Video output for monitoring
• 2-channel RCA audio output
• LTC I/O (selectable LTC input or Reference Video Input)
• RS-422
• 2 model options: with Expresscard adapter for laptop use; or with PCIe card for desktop
(tower)
• For Mac OSX and 64-bit Windows 7 operating systems
• Small portable case design fits in 1RU rackmount option
• 1-meter PCIe tether cable
• 12V DC power supply
1
1
1
2
Accepted Inputs
• HD/SD SDI Video with embedded audio
• HDMI Video with embedded audio
Note: Encoding of Apple ProRes is available only on Apple computers. Apple ProRes can
be played back on a PC with the appropriate QuickTime Windows decoder.
Using Multiple AJA
Products
Starting with KONA, Io HD, and Io Express v7.5, more than one AJA product can be used
with your host computer. Using the AJA/Io Express Control Panel (Mac) or Machina Control
Application (Windows), you can choose which installed product an application uses for
input/output. If you have more than one product and the associated drivers installed, in the
upper left corner of the AJA Control Panel and the Setup Screen of Machina, you will see a
board name, such as Io Express or KONA3. (If only one product is installed, the AJA/Io
Express Control Panel will not show a product or pulldown menu.) To “target” a specific
installed product for use, select it from the list of available products that appear in the
pulldown.
When you launch an application such as Final Cut Pro 7, or AJA TV, that application will use
the product that is currently selected in the AJA Control Panel or Machina application for its
input/output. Once an application is running, you can change the “targeted” product
selection in the AJA Control Panel or Machina and select a different product. The running
application will retain its connection to the product. If you change the “targeted” product
and launch a different application, that application will use the new product for its input/
output, while the first application you launched will continue to use the previous AJA
product.
Example: select an Io Express as the targeted product in the Control Panel application.
Launch Final Cut Pro 7. Final Cut Pro 7 is now using the Io Express for its input/output. Go
back to the Control Panel application and select a KONA 3 as the “targeted” product.
Launch the AJA TV application. AJA TV would now use the KONA 3 for its output.
If you switch back to Final Cut Pro 7, you will see that it still uses the Io Express for its input/
output. Note that some applications, like AJA TV, have a provision for playing in the
background, so playback on one product could even continue when switching the targeted
device for use with another application. You can even feed the output from one AJA
product to another AJA product on the same system in such cases.
AJA TV optionally supports playback in the background; checkbox “Continue Playback”
when AJA TV is in background.
Note: Performance of multi-product use depends on a variety of factors: CPU usage, RAM,
disk IOPS/bandwidth for streams of video, etc. and therefore performance may vary.
Also be aware that multiple input/output streams are only supported by software that
is explicitly designed for a multi-product environment. Also note that due to limitations
of FireWire bandwidth, only one Io HD product may be used at a time on a host
computer.
About Primary &
Secondary Video
Formats
In Io Express operation, the Primary Format is the media format written to disk and used in
your project. The Secondary format is that which may be input for capture or output from Io
Express to VTRs or other devices. Down-conversion may be applied to an input or on
output.
The Primary Format menu allows you to select the video format used in your current
project.
Down-conversion is performed based on the Primary or Secondary Format settings.
Io Express can down-convert the input format (when designated as a Secondary Format
input) to the selected Primary Format. Or you can set a Secondary Format output that will
be a down-conversion of the Primary Format.
Note: When converting an Input to the Primary Format, select the Secondary Format
option that has (I), for input only, appended to it. Conversely, when converting an
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Features
Output from the Primary Format, you must select an output signal with (O) for output
only.
Convert Mode
Convert Mode allows selection of a conversion mode for down conversion between Highdefinition and Standard-definition formats. The choices offered depend on the AJA
capture device present and the Primary and Secondary format chosen. Io Express
supports down conversion plus SD-to-SD aspect ratio conversions. See the following
tables for conversion options.
All conversions use AJA 10-bit hardware on the card.
To do a down-conversion on an HD input:
1
Set the Primary Format as an SD format
Select the correct HD format with an (I) input designation for the Secondary Format, then
Choose a “– Secondary” Video Input type
Down-conversion display mode choices that may be available include:
• Anamorphic: full-screen
• Letterbox: image is reduced with black top and bottom added to image area with
the aspect ratio preserved
• Crop: image is cropped horizontally to fit new screen size
The following Primary Video Signal Formats are supported by Io Express.
720x576 @ 25.00i
1920x1080 @ 23.976sF
720x576 (Wide) @ 25.00i
1920x1080 @ 24.00sF
720x486 @ 29.97i
1920x1080 @ 25.00sF
720x486 (Wide) @ 29.97i
1920x1080 @ 29.97sF
720x480 @ 29.97i
1920x1080 @ 30.00sF
720x480 (Wide) @ 29.97i
1920x1080 @ 25.00i
1280x720 @ 23.976p
1920x1080 @ 29.97i
1280x720 @24.00p
1920x1080 @ 30.00i
1280x720 @ 25.00p
1920x1080 @ 23.976p
1280x720 @ 29.97p
1920x1080 @ 24.00p
1280x720 @ 30.00p
1920x1080 @ 25.00p
1280x720 @ 50.00p
1920x1080 @ 29.97p
1280x720 @ 59.94p
1920x1080 @ 30.00p
1280x720 @ 60.00p
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4
Io Express Down-conversion Options:
The table below contains the available Io Express down-conversion options.
Primary Video Format
Secondary Format Options
1280x720 @ 23.976p
720x486 @ 29.97i
1280x720 @ 25.00p
720x576 @ 25.00i
1280x720 @ 29.97p
720x486 @ 29.97i
1280x720 @ 50.00p
720x576 @ 25.00i
1280x720 @ 59.94p
720x486 @ 29.97i
1920x1080 @ 23.976sF
720x486 @ 29.97i
1920x1080 @ 25.00sF
720x576 @ 25.00i
1920x1080 @ 29.97sF
720x486 @ 29.97i
1920x1080 @ 25.00i
720x576 @ 25.00i
1920x1080 @ 29.97i
720x486 @ 29.97i
All conversions use AJA 10-bit hardware on the card.
Playback Formats
Playback formats supported by Io Express include:
• DVCPRO HD
• HDV
• DV25/DV50
• XDCAM
• SD Uncompressed
• XDCAM EX, XDCAM HD
• Apple ProRes 422 HD/SD (Mac Pro and MacBook Pro only)
Io Express Audio
Software for Mac
For analog audio output monitoring, Io Express provides two-channel unbalanced audio
(RCA jacks).
• AJA Io Express Control Panel for source selection and controlling Io Express within the
overall MacOS environment, Input Pass through, and more).
• AJA QuickTime™ drivers for tightly integrated hardware/software operation.
• Supports a wide variety of popular SD and HD formats.
• Support for Apple Final Cut Pro 7™ (application software not included).
• Support for Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects and Photoshop (application software
not included)
AJA’s Io Express software and hardware were developed for use on the Macintosh platform
providing powerful integrated video/audio capture, editing, and video production. With an
Apple Mac Pro and Io Express, you have an ideal high-quality cost-effective system for
standard definition and high definition video production workflows. Software is supplied
on CD, including the AJA Io Express Control Panel, drivers for the card itself, and all files
necessary for Final Cut Pro 7 and other application support (software application not
included).
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — What’s In The Box?
Software for
Windows
5
AJA Software for Windows brings high quality HD and SD video and audio to a Windows
workstation with Io Express. With Io Express’s professional features, you can run these Windows
platform applications (application software not included):
• Adobe Premiere Pro CS5
• Adobe After Effects CS5
• Adobe Photoshop CS5
• Autodesk Combustion
• Eyeon Fusion
• Sony Vegas 9.0c
Io Express software also offers AJA’s own Machina application for incredible standalone file
capture, preview and playout with full machine control.
1
What’s In The Box?
As you unpack the shipping box(es), carefully examine the contents. Ensure you received
everything and that nothing was damaged during shipment. If you find any damage,
immediately notify the shipping service and supply them with a complete description of the
damage. AJA will repair or replace damaged items. If you find shipping damage, contact your
AJA dealer or distributor for details on how to have your Io Express repaired or replaced.
Save packing materials and the shipping box. If you ever require service or move your system—
use the packaging materials and box for safe shipment.
Io Express Shipping Box Contents
When you unpack your AJA Io Express, you’ll find the following components:
• AJA Io Express Software and Documentation CD-ROM—this CD contains the software
installer to place Io Express drivers and related software on an Apple MacPro or Windows 7
64-bit workstation. Install the software as discussed in this manual in Chapter 2: Installation
and Configuration. The CD also contains a wide variety of useful information, including this
manual you’re reading (PDF format).
• Io Express.
• PCIe Tether Cable.
6
• PCIe adapter (for desktop computer) or Expresscard34 (for laptop computer) depending
on the Io Express model purchased.
• Read Me First Notice—Contains late-breaking news and/or errata related to Io Express
and the documentation.
Registration Sheet—allows you to register your card by mail or online (details provided).
Note: Io Express comes with either an Expresscard/34 adapter or a PCIe adapter card
depending on the model purchased.
System Requirements
AJA Video recommends that your system meet minimum hardware and software
requirements to achieve a satisfactory level of performance when operating it. Here, we
provide minimum and recommended requirements.
Minimum and
Recommended
System and
Software
Requirements
Always consult the release notes for the AJA software version you are running (included with
installer) For the latest appropriate match for your software and hardware, visit:
http://www.aja.com/support/io/io-express.php
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Cable Connections
Cable Connections
Io Express connections are made directly to the unit’s rear connector plate.
SDI
Input
HDMI v1.3a
Input
LTC/
Reference
Input
RS422
Machine Control
1
Power Supply
Connector
Analog
Audio
Output
Composite/
Component
Video Output
HDMI v1.3a
Output
SDI
Output
LTC/
Reference
Output
Io Express Connectors
Connector
Descriptions—
Io Express & Cables
HD/SD SDI Input and Output
BNC connectors are provided on Io Express for one HD/SD-SDI input and one HD/SD-SDI output.
The input and output support video and embedded 24-bit digital audio. Use SDI wherever
possible for the best quality 10-bit uncompressed video input, capture and output. If peripheral
equipment has a variety of inputs/outputs, look to see if it has SDI I/O, and use it where possible.
Most high-end professional broadcast equipment supports SDI (VTRs, cameras, media storage
servers, etc.).
HDMI Input and Output
Two HDMI connectors on the Io Express provide input and output of HDMI compatible video
and multi-channel embedded audio (8 channels). HDMI v1.3a capability at 30 bits per pixel
allows full support of the latest 10-bit monitors.
HDCP is not supported on either input or output. Io Express HDMI output does not have HDCP,
and input sources having HDCP are not supported. The HDMI input is designed to support long
cable runs—up to 100 ft. when using 22 or 24AWG HDMI cable, or up to 50 ft. using 28 or
30AWG HDMI cable. The HDMI output supports standard HDMI cables only.
The AJA Io Express Control Panel allows selection and adjustment of some HDMI parameters;
please see Chapter 3—Final Cut Pro 7 and Io Express for more information on Control Panel
operation.
Analog 2-Channel Unbalanced Audio Output
Io Express provides two analog output connectors, one for each channel. These connectors are
RCA-style phono jacks.
RS422 Machine Control
A female DE-9 connector on Io Express provides connection for VTRs, camcorders, disk media
servers, and other devices using RS422 SMPTE (Sony) protocol. (Connector pinout is listed in
Appendix A: Specifications.)
7
8
Component Video Output (with Composite and Y/C functions)
Io Express features a group of 3 BNC connectors for output of component, composite and
Y/C functions. The signals are labelled on the BNC connectors on the rear panel of Io Express.
A Note About YPbPr—Component Video, or YPbPr, has been given several names over time.
YUV, Y/R-Y/B-Y, and YCbCr, are just some examples. Although these various formats have
some differences in levels, they are all basically the same. Io Express uses the modern
YPbPr terminology exclusively. Io Express supports three different types of YPbPr:
SMPTE/EBU N10, Betacam (NTSC), and Betacam (NTSC Japan). These three formats differ
in level only and are configured in the Mac System via the Io Express Control Panel.
Reference Video and LTC Input
Two BNC connectors on Io Express provide reference Input and Output. The Reference Video
input can also be used for LTC input. The selection of Reference (sync) or LTC is set using the
Io Express Control Panel.
In Video Pass-through mode, these connectors are effectively loop-through. Supplying
reference signal to the Reference input allows you to synchronize Io Express outputs to your
house analog reference video signal (or black burst). If you have a sync generator or central
piece of video equipment to use for synchronizing other video equipment in your studio, then
connect its analog composite output here. When Io Express outputs video, it uses this
reference signal for locking. When connecting a reference video source, the locking signal
should be the same format as the Primary format selected in the Io Express Control Panel. It is
possible in some circumstances to use an alternate format video signal as long as the basic
frame rate is compatible.
In This Manual
Chapter 1 is the introduction you’re reading, listing features, box contents, and system
requirements.
Chapter 2 provides complete instructions for installing and configuring the AJA Io Express.
The user is guided through unpacking, cabling the Io Express, installing Io Express Mac or
Windows Software From CD, then getting it up and running. Important configuration
information is also provided on video settings and use of genlock/external reference.
Chapter 3 discusses operational aspects of Io Express when used with the AJA Control Panel.
Chapter 4 discusses troubleshooting problems with your system and what to do when there’s
a problem you can’t solve.
Appendix A presents a list of technical specifications for the product.
Appendix B contains important safety and compliance information for Io Express operation.
The remainder of the manual consists of an index section to help you rapidly find topics in the
manual.
Chapter 2: Installation
Installation Overview
The installation and set up of an Io Express is very simple. The steps of installation and
configuration are discussed here and summarized as follows:
1. Unpack the shipping box (see “What’s In The Box?” on page 5.)
2. If not previously installed on your Mac Pro or Windows workstation, ensure that
appropriate application software such as Final Cut Pro 7 or Adobe Premiere Pro is
installed as detailed in its user documentation. Editing software must be installed and
have been run at least once prior to installing Io Express software.
3. For latest System Compatibility and Software Version information for Io Express:
Visit: http://www.aja.com/support/io/io-express.php.
Note: Starting with Io Express 7.5, you can operate multiple AJA capture products in a
workstation. See “Using Multiple AJA Products” on page 2 for details.
4. Install AJA Io Express software on your Mac or PC from the
supplied AJA CD-ROM
5. Cable the system audio and video sources, VTR, audio monitor,
and video monitor. If you purchased the laptop Express34 model, install the PCIe
adapter into the PCIe slot in your laptop. If instead you’re using the a desktop (tower)
machine, you will connect the PCIe tether to your installed PCIe interface card.
Each of these steps are explained in greater detail in the remaining
pages of this chapter.
2
1
1
10
Connecting to your Computer
1. With your computer off, install the PCIe adapter card (desktop) or Express card
(laptop).
Caution: Always have power off when connecting any device to the PCIe bus.
Note: Refer to your PC manufacturer’s documentation for installing a PCIe card or Express
card.
2. Connect the PCIe tether cable between Io Express PCIe port and the PCIe adapter.
3. Assemble the Power Adapter and cable and connect to the Io Express 12V Power
connector.
4. Connect your desired Video I/O, Audio monitoring, reference, and machine control
cables. (Refer to Cabling the System following.)
5. Connect the Power Supply to AC power and turn on Io Express using the front power
switch.
Important: For correct performance, always power Io Express before starting your
computer and power down your computer before powering down Io Express.
Ensure that the Apple, Adobe, or other software you are going to use has been installed and
used at least once before proceeding to the installation of Io Express software. It is always a
good idea to verify you have the most up-to-date release of your AJA software by checking
the AJA support site:
http://www.aja.com/support/io/io-express.php
Io Express Connections
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Cabling the System
Cabling the System
Typical System
This figure shows typical system interconnections for a system with digital A/V sources.
Your system may differ depending on VTRs, audio monitoring, and video monitoring.
1. If desired, connect your house reference sync to the Io Express Ref/LTC connector
(BNC). The second Io Express Ref Loop connector (if used in Pass through mode)
can be connected to the VTR or terminated with a 75-ohm terminator. If instead
using LTC timecode input, connect to the Ref/LTC input.
2. Connect an HDMI Video Monitor to the Io Express HDMI Out connector. Or instead,
use the Component Analog Video Out BNC connectors to go to an analog monitor.
3. Connect a 9-pin DE-9 machine control cable between your VTR’s 1
RS422 control
port and the Io Express RS-422 machine control connector.
4. Connect two SDI cables between Io Express and your digital VTR (Digital Betacam
etc.): one from Io Express SDI In to the VTR SDI Out, and one from Io Express SDI Out
to the VTR SDI In. The Io Express SDI connections have embedded audio so the
VTR must be configured accordingly.
5. Use the two RCA-style unbalanced stereo output jacks for audio monitoring
output.
VTR with SDI Inputs/Outputs
Reference Monitors
Unbalanced
Audio In/Out
to Monitors
HD/SD-SDI Video I/O
with Embedded Audio
RS422
Machine
Control
HDMI Monitor
ExpressCard/34
Adapter with
Cable
Adapter
Installed
In Laptop
External Reference
(Blackburst)
or LTC Input
Apple MacBook Pro w/OSX
or
XP/Vista/7 PC laptop
Typical Laptop System Connections
11
12
VTR with SDI Inputs/Outputs
Reference Monitors
Unbalanced
Audio In/Out
to Monitors
HD/SD-SDI Video I/O
with Embedded Audio
RS422
Machine
Control
HDMI Monitor
Adapter
Installed
Inside Mac
External Reference
(Blackburst)
or LTC Input
PCIe Adapter
and cable (supplied)
POWER
CMPTR
Storage RAID
Apple Mac Pro w/OSX
or
Windows PC w/ XP/Vista/7
Typical Desktop System Connections
Computer Monitor
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Cabling the System
13
Installing Io Express Software
First ensure that Final Cut Pro 7 or Adobe applications are installed as detailed in their user
documentation. These applications must be installed and have been run at least once prior to
installing AJA Io Express software. Next, go to the AJA website to download the latest Io Express
software. If you don’t have an appropriate internet connection, use the CD-ROM supplied with
the Io Express system to install necessary software drivers and control panel application
(Windows-based Machina or Mac-based AJA/Io Express Control Panel. You cannot use Io Express
with Final Cut Pro 7 or Adobe, or other third-party software until the AJA Io Express software has
been installed on the host workstation.
System software updates may occasionally become available to AJA Io Express owners on our
website (www.aja.com). We recommend checking occasionally for both software updates and
additional product information.
1
Note: If your workstation has previously had another video capture or multimedia card
installed, ensure you remove the card and/or uninstall any related software before installing
Io Express This will prevent any hardware or software conflicts. Io Express will not operate
properly on a Mac or PC that also has an AJA Io, Io HD, KONA, or XENA card installed.
If you add Io Express supported applications at a later date and have not previously installed the
appropriate plugins, you must run the install program again selecting the appropriate
application support software to be installed.
Mac Pro Software
Installation
Locate the AJA Io Express Software download or CD-ROM packaged with your system. Then
follow the procedure below to put the required software on the host Mac to be used with Io
Express. The system must be an Apple Mac Pro or MacBook Pro as described earlier in Chapter 1:
System Requirements. If you are going to use Adobe Applications with Io Express, you will need
to download and install a second Io Express package for Adobe for Mac.
Note: Before installing Io Express software, turn off any virus protection and security software
that you may have installed on your computer.
1. For CD-ROM: Insert the Io Express CD in the Mac, locate the Io Express CD icon on the OS
X desktop. Double click the icon to see the CD contents, which will appear in its own
window.
2. Locate the package file (download or CD); it has an icon that looks like a box and has a
“.pkg” or “.mpkg” suffix.
Note: Files ending in the “.pkg” and “.mpkg” suffix are OS X installer files. These launch the OS X
installer and tell it where and what to install on your system.
3. Double-click the package to log on and begin software installation.
4. The system will respond by asking you to authenticate who you are as currently defined
on your OS X user profile. Enter the proper name and password at the Authenticate
prompt; if you have multiple users defined, ensure that you log on as a user with
administrator-level authority.
14
Log On Authenticate Prompt
5. Click on the OK button after entering a valid user and password.
6. The installer will launch and you’ll see a series of installer screens.
Initial Installer Screen
7. Click Continue to begin installation.
8. The next screen lets you know that the installer will check your Mac to ensure it has the
hardware and software resources required (see Minimum Requirements in Chapter 1).
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Cabling the System
15
1
System Check Installer Screen
9. Read and agree to the Software License Agreement.
Io Express Software License Agreement Screen
10.The next screen shows all the available drives on the Mac Pro. Click on the drive that
contains your system files (Apple default is “Macintosh HD”). A green arrow will point to the
drive you’ve selected. Click the Continue button to proceed with installation.
16
11.At the next screen, select the Easy Setups that you want to use (or all of them) and then
click the Continue button to place the software on the drive you previously selected.
Installer Screen, Select Easy Setups to be Installed
12.A system prompt will pop up with a reminder that OS X must be restarted after
installation. Click the Continue Installation button to proceed.
Restart OS X Reminder Prompt
13.The installer will run and put all the necessary Io Express drivers, presets and software
on the desired hard drive. When it has completed installation, a final screen will be
displayed announcing that “software was successfully installed.”
14.Click the Restart button to complete the installation procedure. The system will
perform software restart and be ready for use.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Cabling the System
Windows Software
Installation
Locate the AJA Windows Software download file or CD packaged with your system and follow
the procedure below to install the required software on the host system. There are two versions
of AJA Windows Software installation—for 32-bit workstations and 64-bit Vista workstations.
The 32-bit software is designated “-x86” (for 32-bit processors) and “-x64” (for 64-bit processors).
Note: Note: Before installing AJA Windows Software, turn off any virus protection and security
software that you have installed on your computer.
Open the AJA Windows Software download or insert the Software CD in the PC.
Note: If you are installing from the CD, the Auto-run installation installs the 32-bit package. If
you want the 64-bit, you must stop the auto-run, browse the C D, and select the 64-bit
package for installation.
Install Wizard
1
The AJA Windows Software installation program will launch and extract the necessary Io
Express drivers, Machina Software, and application plugins for installation on the desired hard
drive.
Install Wizard Welcome
When you see the Welcome page, click “Next” to view the AJA Windows Software license
agreement.
17
18
License Agreement
Read the Windows Software license agreement and click “Yes” to accept. You will be asked to
choose the type of installation you would like to perform.
Installation Type
If you don’t have all the AJA Windows Software supported Adobe Production Studio products
installed on your workstation, you may choose to perform a Custom installation (default) and
select only the software necessary for your applications. If you use the entire collection, use
the “Complete” installation.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Cabling the System
The following screens depict the more elaborate Custom installation. Shown below are the toplevel directory of options. Click (+/-) to expand or contract.
1
Top-level Installation Item Selection
You may deselect any Item for installation by using the pulldown to make it unavailable.
Custom Selections Pulldown Menu
19
20
Use second level options to choose the specific drivers and plugins you would like installed.
Custom Selection Second-level Options
Disabled selections are marked with a red X. Before clicking Next to install, you can verify your
disk space availability by clicking the Disk Usage button.
Workstation Disk Usage Display
To return to the installation click OK.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Cabling the System
Click Next to begin the installation.
1
Installation Progress Screen.
When the installer has completed copying the AJA Windows Software to disk, you will see a
standard Windows Logo test warning. Click on the “Continue Anyway” button to finish the
installation.
When the installation is completed, a final screen will be displayed announcing that “Setup has
finished installing AJA Windows Software on your computer.” Click on the Finish button after the
installation is complete. Restart the computer after installation to activate the Io Express.
21
22
Re-Installation &
Repair
If you have problems running your newly installed pluggins or need to re-install for added
applications, you can relaunch the install package and access the following window.
Note: Always uninstall AJA Windows Software before installing a new version.
Change, Repair, or Remove Installation Menu
Genlock and Your System
For video stability and proper system operation, you can genlock all equipment to house sync,
however genlock is not required for Io Express due to excellent freerun accuracy. To connect
genlock, use a black burst generator output looped through the system. On the Io Express
house sync is connected to “LTC/Ref In”.
Note: Be sure to set the Reference/LTC connection to Reference in the IO Express Control
Panel (Mac) or Machina Control Panel (Windows).
Chapter 3: Operation
Using KONA 3G with Professional Video /Audio Software
After you install the KONA 3G software and any AJA plug-ins to support your choice of 3rdparty software, you’re then ready to begin capturing and playing back video and audio.
Go here to look for AJA plug-ins and documentation for your favorite 3rd-party software
applications:
http://www.aja.com/support/konaNEW/kona-3g.php
Using the AJA Control Panel
The AJA IO Express Control Panel is a software application that provides a simple visual way to
see how the Io Express interface is currently configured and make changes as desired.
Settings—both those you changed and those you didn’t—can be saved as a snapshot for
recall at anytime. This lets you save settings associated with all your frequent tasks; then as
you switch tasks you don’t have to spend extra time resetting interface configurations—just
load the previously saved settings for each task.
One thing you’ll notice instantly about the Control Panel is that it represents a visual block
diagram of how the unit is configured. The current status, input and output settings, and
many other details can be viewed as a color-coded block diagram in the Control Panel.
Control Panel Basics
To ensure you make the most of the software, launch the AJA/Io Express Control Panel
application and look at its display. Then refer to the “Basics” described here to fully
understand what you’re seeing and learn how to view and change the Io Express system
configuration.
Before we go into too much detail, here are some basic definitions you should know (please
refer to the figure that follows for reference). After studying the basics, read “Who is
Controlling Io Express?” later in this chapter for more advanced information on how
applications interact with Io Express.
3
1
1
24
Multiple AJA Devices
If you have more than one AJA device installed in a workstation, you will see a device
pulldown menu in the top-left corner of the control panel screen. See “Using Multiple AJA
Products” on page 2 for details.
Block Diagram Screen—The top area of the Control Panel shows
a visual picture representing the processing (if any) that’s
currently occurring, including inputs/outputs, reference
source, and system status. Lines between inputs, the
framebuffer, and outputs, show a video path. Where there are
no lines, it shows there is no connection; this can be because
an input or output isn’t selected. The lines will also show
whether the outputs are video or video + key.
Control-Clicking
an Icon Produces
a Context-sensitive
Menu
Icon objects on the block diagram screen (input/output
icons, frame buffer, etc.—also called “widgets”—indicate
their status by color (explained later) and can be clicked for context-sensitive
information and choices. (These same choices can also be made from the tabbed
Control Panel screens.)
Framebuffer
Format
(Primary Format)
Currently selected
Tab Screen
Outputs:
SDI, HDMI
and Analog
Inputs
Tab Screen Choices – Click One to Edit/View a Topic
AJA Control Panel, Block Diagram
Framebuffer—The framebuffer is the “engine” in Io Express where active video operations
take place using Final Cut Pro 7, other 3rd-party applications, or even Io Express itself.
The framebuffer has a format (called the “Primary Format” and color space that it
follows, as defined in the Tabbed Windows or via external application software (such as
the “Easy Setups” in Final Cut). It is important to realize that inside the Macintosh many
applications can use the Io Express (as you switch from window to window) and it may
not always be obvious which currently controls it.
The Control Panel displays the name of the application controlling the card. In some
cases, applications may not always properly “let go” of the I/O interface as another
takes over—you’ll be able to tell by looking at the Control Panel.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
Primary Format—The video format currently assigned to Io Express. This is the format
that the framebuffer will use and is shown in the Control Panel using the color blue.
All icons in blue are the same as the Primary Format used by the framebuffer. Also
any text descriptions in the block diagram that appear in blue also indicate that
something is in the primary format. So, for example, if you see that the input and
output icons are blue, then you know that the same format is used throughout the
video path and that no format conversion is being performed. If a different color is
displayed on the input or output, say green for example, then you know that Io
Express is performing a format conversion in the video path.
Secondary Format—Any format other than the currently selected Primary Format, is a
secondary format. As described previously, this means that either the Inputs or
Outputs are somehow different from the framebuffer’s assigned format (i.e., the
“Primary Format”). This can be seen at a glance because the color will
1 be different
than blue.
Input/Output Icons—The input and output icons are triangles that together with their
color show all the input and outputs and their status (selected, not selected, input
present or not, format, etc.). A complete video path is shown when inputs and
outputs are connected with lines going to/from the framebuffer.
Input/Output Icon
Conversion Icons—when an input or output is a different standard than the
framebuffer, the Io Express may be down-converting the signal to the selected
standard. This may be automatic, because it's detected an input signal that differs
from the standard currently selected, or because you've explicitly told it to convert.
In either case, the block diagram will show the conversion by displaying a conversion
icon in between the input/output and the framebuffer.
Down-conversion icon
Color Meanings—All items in the IO Express Control Panel block diagram are colorcoded to show what is happening in realtime. This applies to both icons and text. These
colors have the following corresponding meanings:
Blue: video is same format as the Primary Format (framebuffer)
Red: the selected operation cannot be performed
Yellow: reference video (black burst or other reference source)
Green: indicates that Io Express is performing an active change to the video
making it different from the Primary Format (e.g., down-conversion).
Tabbed Windows—The bottom area of the IO Express Control Panel provides different
information categorized by topic. Clicking on a “Tab”—or a block diagram element—
displays an information screen corresponding to a tabbed topic. The arrows at either side
of the displayed tabs can be clicked to see any additional tabs not visible on the screen. If
an arrow is “grayed out”, there are no additional tabs in that direction. Each of these
tabbed windows are described on the following pages. Tabs that can be selected are:
Control: configures Io Express operation (pass through, desktop, etc.) plus setting
output timing.
Format: select the framebuffer primary video format and any secondary formats
for down-conversion of inputs/outputs
Input Select: view and edit input selections and how they are mapped
SDI Out: select output format—Primary or Secondary (downconversion)
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26
HDMI: configure the HDMI I/O
Analog Out: configure the component/composite analog output
Video Setup: configures Video such as composite black level.
Audio Setup: configures Audio options such as analog audio monitor level.
Conversion: used to select codec options such as whether a pause stops on a full
frame or a single field (jitter shown or not) and 24 to 30 fps padding patterns.
Timecode: monitor and configure timecode
Presets: add or delete saved preset configurations (handy for setting up the Io XT for
certain workflows and then saving it as a canned configuration for easy later recall)
Firmware: enables installation of AJA card firmware.
Info: displays status information and firmware version # of the Io Express and how it
is installed in the host Macintosh. This information is generally intended for
troubleshooting/support.
Control Screen
The Io Express can be controlled by various software applications running on a host MacPro.
The Control Screen is where you select how the Io Express directs video used by application
software. This screen also provides control for configuring output timing for external
reference video and horizontal/vertical delay.
At the top of the Control screen, it will show the current Default Io Express output and the
application currently controlling the Io Express card (if there is one). For example, in the
screen shown here, the default output is Input Passthrough.
Io Express Control Panel, Control Tab
Control Screen Settings
Default Io Express Output—Here you select the output Io Express will use as the default
when no application has control of the board, like when the Finder is active. Since Io
Express can be controlled by either software applications or its own Control Panel, the
output can change dynamically. When you change video applications, they will usually
grab control of the Io Express inputs/outputs. When they don’t, these default settings
determine which Io Express inputs/outputs are active and set the formats.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
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1
Control Tab, Default Io Express Output Pulldown Menu
Choices available and their meaning are:
Input Passthrough: this selection directs Io Express to route video from its selected input
through the card for output. When this selection is in effect, all Primary selections are
available for selection in controlling the output.
Test Pattern: this selection directs Io Express to output a choice of preset patterns—when
no other QuickTime application is using Io Express.
Hold Last Application: this selection directs Io Express to hold and output the last frame of
video from the last application to control Io Express. This can be helpful when operating
in an environment where you’re switching back and forth between multiple application
windows.
Tip: Pressing and holding the Apple COMMAND key while clicking in the Io Express
Control Panel—while in any software application (Final Cut, etc.)—causes control of the Io
Express to stay with that application, rather than shifting to the Control Panel. This works
regardless of the setting of “Default Io Express Output.”
Control Tab, Test Pattern Choices
28
Playback Timing (greyed-out when in Input Passthrough)
Genlock (Freerun, Ref In, Input 1, or Input 2)—Selects how Io Express will synchronize program
video:
Freerun: in this mode, Io Express generates video without an external reference source
Ref In: directs Io Express to use the Ref Video source for sync (usually an analog black
burst video signal)
Video: directs Io Express to use whichever video input source has been selected in the
Inputs tab window for sync
Note: When the Io Express goes into capture mode, the Genlock mode automatically
switches to Video In.
Timing (Horiz and Vert)—these two pull-downs allow output timing adjustment with
reference to the Ref Video source selected. The Horizontal reference can be adjusted by
selecting a number of pixels (clocks) to offset. Vertical can be adjusted by specifying a
number of lines to offset.
Format Screen
The Format screen shows the video format currently in use by the Io Express framebuffer
(called the Primary Format) and allows you to change it. Throughout the Control Panel,
choices are always presented based on what Io Express can do with the signals available and
the inputs/outputs selected. For example, on the Formats screen, if the output or inputs are a
different format than the primary, you’ll see an additional information pane that allows you to
view and edit the secondary format—including control over whether down-conversion is
employed. In the figure below, the SDI input (Secondary Format) is being down-converted to
the Primary Format.
Formats menu
Format Tab and Pulldown Menu
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
Format Screen Settings
Video Format—This pull-down menu shows the currently selected format. This pull-down
appears in both the Primary Format area of the Formats screen and the Secondary Format area
(if present). If you select an alternate value in the Primary Format using the pull-down, it will
change the format used by Io Express’s framebuffer. Video Format can only be changed when
the Control Tab menu has the setting “Input Pass through”. When a change is made via the Video
Format pull-down, the block diagram will change to reflect the new format.
In the case of Secondary Format, the formats available can vary based on what the Primary
Format is and the input signal (frame rates of input sources limits the to/from conversion
choices). The “Secondary Video Format” pull-down menu lists all formats with those that are
incompatible shown in gray (these can’t be selected). This allows you to see what you've chosen,
and also see those formats that are incompatible with the selected Primary format.
1
For more details on Io Express Primary and Secondary Formats see “About Primary
& Secondary
Video Formats” on page 2.
Note: The IO Express Control Panel software uses the abbreviation “sf” instead of “psf” when
referring to “progressive segmented frame”. In the manual and in other literature you may
see either of these acronyms used interchangeably.
VANC—Below the Primary Format pulldown menu, you can check the VANC box to include
Vertical Ancillary Data in the video stream. VANC enables Closed Caption Ancillary data to be
played or captured. If you have a file with a Closed Caption track, this checkbox must be enabled
for the data to be inserted in the SDI output stream.
Down-conversion: For down-conversion, the following format choices are available:
Anamorphic: full-screen “stretched” image
Letterbox: image is reduced with black top and bottom added to image area with the
aspect ratio preserved
Crop: image is cropped to fit new screen size
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Input Select Screen
On the Input Select screen, you can view the currently selected video and audio input sources
and map audio sources to the channels supported by your capture application (more on this
later). Two information panes in the screen are provided: Video Input and Audio Input.
Input Select Tab
Input Screen Settings
Video Input—these pulldown menus allow you to see and change what's currently selected
and the video format that Io HD has detected (if any). In the example shown previously, it
shows that video is selected at the SDI 1 input and the format is 1080i with a frame rate of
29.97. Since this text is shown in blue, you can tell that it does match the framebuffer's
primary format you've set in the “Formats” screen. By looking at the input source, you can
determine how the primary format should likely be set (unless you want to perform a
conversion on input.) If you wish to select a different input, select one from the pulldown
menu. Choices are:
• SDI
• HDMI
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
Audio Input—This pulldown menu allows you to choose where the audio comes from. Io
Express supports up to 8 channels of embedded digital audio, so you can choose from the
16 channels that can be embedded in SDI, and pick which to bring in (from the group 1-8 or
9-16). If your application supports only two channels of audio, you will select which two
channels from the 8 selected embedded will be mapped to the two designated channels (1 & 2).
1
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SDI Out Screen
The SDI Out screen shows the current setting for both the SDI and HDMI outputs. If an input/
output has no video, it will be indicated on the block diagram (“No Video”).
Io Express Control Panel, Digital Out Tab
SDI Out Screen Settings
Information that can appear includes the following items. You can view the current setting or
click on another to change to it:
Primary—when selected, this indicates that the SDI output is set to the same format as the
framebuffer. That value will be listed in blue.
Secondary—when selected, this indicates that the SDI output is set to a format different from
the framebuffer (Primary Format). That secondary format value will be listed in green. This
shows that active processing of the video is taking place (format change and possibly downconversion).
Note: Control-clicking on an output icon brings up a contextual menu allowing you see the
current format and make changes if desired.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
HDMI Tab Screen
The Io Express’s HDMI input and output are shown and configured at this tab screen. The HDMI
input pane shows if an HDMI input source has been detected and locked on, showing the
format found.
1
HDMI Tab
HDMI Tab Screen Settings
HDMI Output—Pulldowns are provided for configuring the video output range, color space
and number of embedded audio channels (2 or the maximum 8) for the HDMI output. A
Protocol pulldown allows you to choose either “HDMI” or “DVI” protocol—use DVI if you’re
outputting to a DVI monitor using an HDMI to DVI adapter.
HDMI Input—while there are two different ranges of colorspace values that SDI can use (RGB
and YCbCr) the HDMI input on the Io Express defaults to the SMPTE video input range. A
pulldown allows you to select full range.
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Analog Out Screen
Io Express provides a high-quality analog component or composite output, generally used for
monitoring. This screen shows the current settings for that analog output, and allows you to
re-configure it when desired.
Analog Out Tab
Analog Out Screen Settings
Select menu—you can select either the Primary or Secondary format (downconvert) for the
Analog output.
Analog Format—choices in the Analog Format pulldown menu vary depending upon the
Analog Output video standard. For example, the “Composite + Y/C” selection is only available
when an SD (525i29.97 or 625i25) format is in use. Analog formats can include:
• Composite +Y/C
• Component (SMPTE/EBU N10)
• Component (Beta)
Monitor Audio—selects which pair of audio channels are routed to the Audio Monitor RCA
connectors.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
Video Setup Screen
Io Express provides a high-quality analog component or composite output, generally used for
monitoring. This screen shows the current settings for black level setup for the analog video
output, and allows you to re-configure it when desired.
1
Video Setup Tab
QuickTime Video Output Filter—The Video Output Filter is designed to help manage the
comprehensive list of video outputs that may be available to applications, particularly Final
Cut Pro 7's A/V Devices tab.
By selecting the checkbox next to specified parameters, the video outputs related to
these specified parameters are enabled as possible video outputs for applications. As an
example, if the checkbox next to 25/50 is unchecked, 50Hz video outputs are deselected
and would not be available to the user in the A/V Devices tab of Final Cut Pro 7. To avoid
confusion, users might elect to leave 50Hz unchecked if they work solely in a 60Hz
editorial environment. The Quicktime application must be quit and restarted to see
changes here.
Important: If a prompt occurs in Final Cut Pro 7 stating that the AJA output device is
missing, this may simply be due to the Active Video Filter for a given parameter being
unchecked for the format selected in the application. If this occurs, quit Final Cut Pro 7, make the
appropriate selection in the Control Panel application and restart Final Cut Pro 7 where the
selection should now be available.
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Audio Setup Screen
The Audio Setup This screen shows the current settings for that analog audio output, and
allows you to re-configure it when desired.
Audio Setup Tab
Audio Setup Screen Settings
Lock Audio Gain To Unity—When set, Io Express will ignore the Final Cut Pro 7 gain setting
and set the audio gain at unity. When not set, this checkbox tells Io Express to get the
audio gain setting from Final Cut Pro 7.
Analog Audio Monitor Level—determines the audio level that will appear at the Analog
Audio Output RCA connector pair (“FSD” is full-scale-deflection reading as measured on a
VU meter). Select +18 for Europe or +24 for USA.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
Conversion Screen
This screen offers controls that determine how Io Express behaves under Final Cut Pro 7.
1
Codec Tab
Codec Screen Settings
24-30 FPS Conversion—the value selected in this pulldown is used whenever, due to format
selection, you’ve chosen to do 24 frames-per-second to 30 conversion where extra fields
will be added to pad the existing ones. Depending on video content, selection of different
field patterns may be useful in reducing jitter due to the content of adjacent fields. The
numbers in the pattern choices specify the frequency with which inserted fields will be
repeated. For example, “2:3:2:3” means duplicate a field twice, then the next field three
times, then the next twice, and then back to three times.
Codec Tab, Frame-padding Pattern Choices
Video Out, Pause On—these two choices determine what happens when Final Cut Pro 7 is
paused in stop mode:
Full Frame: both fields are displayed resulting in some jitter while paused.
Single Field: a single field is displayed, showing no flicker (useful when color
correcting or whenever the flickering would be a distraction).
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Timecode Screen
In Final Cut Pro 7, timecode always comes from RS-422. In other applications (such as VTR
Xchange), timecode can come from any source and this is where you select that source.
The timecode screen is used for both monitoring the RP-188 timecode embedded in the
digital data stream and for selecting a timecode offset on output (if desired). Settings for the
output section of the tab can be used to create window burn superimposed timecode
outputs.
Note: SMPTE 12M-2 is the updated name and specification for what was RP-188.
Timecode Tab
Timecode Screen Settings
RP-188 Timecode <n>—in RP-188 timecode (SMPTE 12M-2) there can be multiple timecode
values in the data stream. Use this pull-down to select the one you wish to monitor. The
selection will be displayed in the timecode value displayed to the right of the pull-down.
User Bits—For monitoring variable framerate (VFR) timecode (such as Varicam), you may
wish to monitor the user bits embedded in the timecode. If you set this checkbox, Io
Express will detect and interpret the user bits and display them next to the checkbox.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
1
Io Express Control Panel, Timecode Pulldown Menu
Use QuickTime Timecode—when checked, this directs Io Express to output timecode from the
QuickTime timecode track in playback. When not checked, Io Express uses the Output
Timecode Offset value plus the number of frames into the movie. Note: not all QuickTime
applications use or support timecode tracks—so sometimes the QuickTime timecode is
missing or not meaningful.
Output Timecode Offset (entry field and FPS pull-down)—this text entry field allows you to
specify a timecode offset for use with Final Cut Pro 7 (or any other application that has
timecode offsets that are user-controlled). In FCP 7, go to “Timeline Options” and locate the
“Starting Timecode” value. Use that same value here as the “Output Timecode Offset” to
ensure the timecode is synchronized.
Timecode Burn-in—this pulldown selects whether the timecode value is “burned-in” on video
output from Io Express. If set to “OFF”, timecode will not be keyed over the video. If set to
“timecode”, then the timecode value will be keyed over the output video. This can be useful
for synchronizing, choosing edit points, dailies, and many other purposes.
Note: SMPTE RP 188 defines a standard for the transmission of time code and control code in
the ancillary data space of a digital television data stream. Time code information is
transmitted in the ancillary data space as defined in ANSI/SMPTE 291M. Multiple codes can
be transmitted within a single digital video data stream. Other time information, such as
real time clock, DTTR tape timer information, and other user-defined information, may also
be carried in the ancillary time code packet instead of time code. The actual information
transmitted through the interface is identified by the coding of a distributed binary bit.
Equipment manufacturers can use the meta data for different purposes.
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After configuring the AJA Control Panel Tabbed screens, you can then save all your settings as
a snapshot for later recall—called a preset. In this way, you can organize presets for all your
typical tasks, eliminating time-robbing manual re-configuration each time. To save a preset,
simply go to the Presets screen and click “Save Preset”. A dialog will be presented asking you
for a name; enter a meaningful name and click “OK”. Thereafter the preset will be available
under the Control Panel “Presets” list.
Presets Screen
From the Presets screen you can manage your collection of presets easily. To Load or Delete a
stored preset, just select it with your mouse and then click the “Load Preset” or “Delete”
button respectively.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
Firmware Tab
Screen
Use the Firmware tab to access the firmware install screen. Click install to erase current firmware
and load the firmware version contained in your current driver installation. Note the Installation
message shown below.
1
Firmware Update
You will be required to power-cycle your computer and Io XT to finish the update.
Update Completed
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Info Screen
This Tabbed screen shows the Io Express software files that have been installed on your system.
This information may be needed if you talk to an AJA Customer Service representative to
determine if files are missing or need updating.
Io Express Control Panel, Info Tab
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Using the AJA Control Panel
Who is Controlling
Io Express?
There are times when you might have several Quicktime applications open at one time, and
each of these might want to output their video thru the Io Express video output. Io Express is
very flexible and most applications perform the necessary housekeeping so they work correctly
when they're active and when they're not. This means that the application that is “active” (in
front) will be granted control of the Io Express video output. Generally, when you switch to a
different application, the previous application lets go of the video output and the new
application gets control.
1
Io Express/AJA Control Panel Control Message
The AJA Control Panel in-use message will tell you the “active” application that has control of
Io Express (see in-use message above) and what the format selections are. If you click on another
supported application that is running such as Adobe Premiere Pro or AJA TV, the AJA Control
Panel in-use message will report the change by displaying the new application in control. If no
in-use message is displayed, the AJA Control Panel is in control of Io Express. If no QuickTime
applications are running, the board’s state is determined by the AJA Control Panel’s settings.
QuickTime Application Format Selection
If a running QuickTime application uses Io Express for capture or output, it controls the Primary
format via its own menus and settings. For example, when Final Cut Pro 7 is active (it’s the frontmost application) and has Io Express as its “A/V Device”, then the Io Express's Primary format is
determined by Final Cut's “Video Playback” submenu (under the “View” menu) or its “Audio/
Video Settings...” dialog under A/V Devices. These format selections are reported in the AJA
Control Panel block diagram.
QuickTime applications can start and stop and change modes—even while they are running.
And the behavior of different QuickTime applications can vary: some applications take control
of the interface as soon as they are launched and don't give it up until they quit, while other
applications take control of the interface only when they are the “front-most” running
application and then relinquish control when they’re not. Final Cut Pro 7 is one of the latter type
QuickTime applications. Even these QuickTime applications may not relinquish control until
capture or output operations are completed.
Note: Final Cut Pro 7 does not release the board if it is in capture mode. The Control Panel “inuse” message will still say Final Cut Pro 7 has control even if the front application changes.
Control Recommendations
We recommend you have the Control Panel running and visible at all times. When the Control
Panel is running in the background (not front-most) you can see what the interface is doing and
who has control of it.
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Using 8-bit Versus 10-bit Video
While both 8- and 10-bit uncompressed video are capable of providing excellent quality
broadcast video, 10-bit represents a significantly higher quality and is preferable in many
situations.
Because 10-bit video has four times the numerical precision of 8-bit, it has a signal-to-noise
ratio 12 dB higher than 8-bit video.
Visually, in 8-bit video compared to 10-bit video, you will notice a substantial difference. In 8bit video there will be “contour lines” or “striations” visible, particularly noticeable in scenes
having soft gradients like a ramp or sunset. For example, if a sky region is mostly the same
color but varies by only a few digital numbers from one side of the picture to another, you
may see contour lines where the signal passes from one digital value to the next higher value.
Since each numerical value in a 10-bit system is only one fourth as large as an 8-bit system's,
these contours become invisible and the sky varies smoothly.
10-bit video is often used when the source and output video (or “master”) is also 10-bit. Even
if the input and/or output video is 8-bit, a 10-bit “project” will still maintain a higher quality
when there is a significant amount of effects rendering involved.
Industry standard professional mastering formats—Sony Digital Betacam for Standard
Definition and Panasonic D5 for High Definition—are both true 10-bit formats.
Chapter 4: Troubleshooting
If You Run Into Problems
One useful way to find the source of problems is to isolate your system to the smallest size
where the problem still occurs and then note all the symptoms. This serves to eliminate areas
not involved in the problem and makes finding the problem easier.
Once you’ve noted problem symptoms, look through the following table and see if any of the
symptoms are listed. If so, check the items listed. If you later need to call for customer service,
let them know all of the things you’ve tried and when and how the symptoms appeared.
Symptom
Check
Disk RAID cannot keep up (dropped
frames etc.).
Ensure the disk system is providing at least 50 MB/second
sustained transfer rate
Dropped frames during playback.
1. Canvas/Viewer zoom setting exceeds the fit-towindow setting. Change to “Fit-to-Window.”
2. RAID cannot sustain the data rate of the clip/sequence.
3. The sequence setting does not match the “playback
output setting” found at FCP Audio/Video Settings -> AV
Output.
4. Virus checking software running in the background
(disable it).
5. Scratch drive not set to the RAID.
Dropped frames during record.
1. RAID cannot sustain the data rate of the capture preset
codec.
2. Virus checking software running in the background
(disable it).
3. Scratch drive not set to the RAID.
Media is not being captured from desired
external device.
Check the settings in the Input tab of the Io Express
Control Panel application. Also check equipment cables.
Dropped frames during playback
Look for scroll bars in the viewer or canvas as a warning
sign that the zoom setting exceeds the fit-t-window.
4
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Symptom
Check
Changes made to Final Cut’s configuration
aren’t remembered or you need to force a
change to them.
Under some circumstances, Final Cut Pro may need to be
initialized back to the factory default state as it was when
you installed it. The easiest way to do this is to locate
Final Cut’s preference file and discard it.
To do so, follow this procedure:
1. Locate the file named “Final Cut Pro x.x Preferences”.
Note: path to file is “Macintosh HD/users/username/
library/preferences/final cut user data.”
3. Click and drag that file to the Trash Can icon and drop
it there.
When you next start up Final Cut Pro, it will present the
“Choose Setup” prompt (as in initial installation) where
you can again choose a desired Io Express input format in
the “Setup For” pulldown and re-enter a desired system
scratch disk (your RAID).
Video in the canvas stays frozen during
playback.
1. The sequence setting does not match the “playback
output setting” found at FCP Audio Video Settings -> AV
Output.
2. Canvas/Viewer zoom setting exceeds the fit-towindow setting. Change to “Fit-to-Window.”
Video output is black.
1. External video is set to “No Frames” (View -> External
Video).
2. The “Playback output setting” found at FCP Audio
Video Settings -> AV Output is set to “none” or to a nonIo Express device.
Video stutter during playback.
RAID cannot sustain data rate.
Red render bar occurs when placing a clip
on a sequence.
The sequence setting does not match the clip setting.
Updating Software
Check on the AJA Video website (http://www.aja.com/support/io/io-express.php) for
software updates. If any are available, download the file and read any associated
instructions prior to installing the software.
Support
When calling for support, first check over your system configuration and ensure everything
is connected properly and that current Final Cut presets and Easy Setups match what you
are trying to do. Even if you cannot find the cause of the problem, having this information at
hand will help when you call Apple or AJA Customer Support for help.
If the problem is unknown or you need general help, first contact the dealer where you
purchased the product. AJA dealers offer product support for many service requirements.
If the problem is a Final Cut Pro operational issue, Mac Pro system issue, or Xserve RAID
issue, then call Apple Customer Support for help.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Support
If the problem is an AJA Video Io Express issue, then contact AJA Video Customer Support
using one of the methods listed below:
Contacting by Mail Address:
180 Litton Drive, Grass Valley, CA. 95945 USA
Telephone: 1.800.251.4224 or 1.530.274.2048
Fax: 1.530.274.9442
Web: http://www.aja.com
Support Email: [email protected]
Apple Resources
Apple provides a large amount of support information online at their support website.
Information provided includes answers to top questions, discussions on specific topics,
and software downloads for updates and utilities.
You may also enroll in AppleCare for extended support of hardware and1software
products. Information is provided on the Apple Support website on how to enroll in
AppleCare.
General Apple Support Website for information on all products:
http://www.info.apple.com/
Mac Pro Support Area: http://www.apple.com/support/macpro/
Final Cut Pro Web Support: http://www.info.apple.com/usen/finalcutpro/
Final Cut Discussion Area:
http://www.apple.com/support/finalcutpro/
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Appendix A: Specifications
Formats
525i 29.97
625i 25
720p 50
720p 59.94
720p 60
1080i 25
1080i 29.97
1080i 30
1080PsF 23.98
1080PsF 24
1080P 23.98
1080P 24
1080P 25
1080P 29.97
1080P 30
Video Input
Digital:
8- or 10-bit HD/SD SDI, SMPTE-259/292/296/424, 1 BNC
HDMI v1.3, 30 bits/pixel, RGB or YUV, 2.25 Gbps, SD, HD
Digital:
HD/SD SDI, SMPTE-259/292/296/424, 1 BNC
HDMI v1.3, 30 bits/pixel, RGB or YUV, 2.25 Gbps, SD, HD
Video Output
Analog:
SD Component:
SMPTE/EBU N10, Betacam 525 line,
Betacam 525J, RGB
12-bit D/A, 8x oversampling
+/- .2 db to 5.5 MHz Y Frequency Response
+/- .2 db to 2.5 MHz C Frequency Response
.5% 2T pulse response
<1 ns Y/C delay inequality
Analog SD and HD Output, 12 bits, BNC:
HD:
YPbPr, RGB
SD:
YPbPr, RGB (component mode)
Composite/YC (composite mode)
Audio Input
Digital:
24-bit SMPTE-259 SDI embedded audio, 8-ch, 48 KHz synchronous
Audio Output
A
1
Digital: 24-bit SMPTE-259 SDI embedded audio, 8-ch, 48 KHz synchronous
Analog: 2-channel unbalanced output (RCA-jack)
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50
Reference Input
Color Black or Tri-level sync
LTC Input (on Reference input)
Machine Control
RS-422, Sony-style DE-9 connector. The 9-pin DE-9 connector pinout is as follows:
1 GND
2 RX3 TX+
4 GND
5 No Connection
6 GND
7 RX+
8 TX9 GND
Shell GND
Appendix B: Safety & Compliance
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notices
Class A Interference
Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to Part 15, Subpart B of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a commericial installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his
own expense. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
FCC Caution
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Canadian ICES Statement
Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio-noise emissions from a
digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications. This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique du ministère des Communications
Cet appareil numérique respecte les limites de bruits radioélectriques visant les appareils
numériques de classe A prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique du
ministère des Communications du Canada. Cet appareil numérique de la Classe A est
conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
B
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European Union and European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
Regulatory Compliance
This equipment may be operated in the countries that comprise the member countries of
the European Union and the European Free Trade Association. These countries, listed in the
following paragraph, are referred to as The European Community throughout this
document:
AUSTRIA, BELGIUM, BULGARIA, CYPRUS, CZECH REPUBLIC, DENMARK, ESTONIA, FINLAND,
FRANCE, GERMANY, GREECE, HUNGARY, IRELAND, ITALY, LATVIA, LITHUANIA, LUXEMBOURG,
MALTA, NETHERLANDS, POLAND, PORTUGAL, ROMANIA, SLOVAKIA, SLOVENIA, SPAIN,
SWEDEN, UNITED KINGDOM, ICELAND, LICHTENSTEIN, NORWAY, SWITZERLAND
Declaration of
Conformity
Marking by this symbol indicates compliance with the Essential Requirements of the EMC
Directive of the European Union 2004/108/EC.
This equipment meets the following conformance standards:
Safety:
CB- IEC 60065:2001 + A1:2005
NRTL - UL 60065:2003 R11.06, CSA C22.2 NO. 60065:2003 + A1:06
GS - EN 60065:2002 + A1
Additional licenses issued for specific countries available on request.
Emissions:
EN 55103-1: 1996
EN61000-3-2:2006, EN61000-3-3:1995 +A1:2001 +A2:2005
CISPR 22: 2006
Immunity:
EN 55103-2: 1996
EN61000-4-2:1995 + A1:1999 + A2:2001, EN61000-4-3:2006, EN61000-4-4:2004,
EN 61000-4-5: 2005, EN 610004-6:2007, EN61000-4-11:2004
The product is also licensed for additional country specific standards as required for
the International Marketplace.
Warning!
This is a Class B product. In a domestic environment, this product may
cause radio interference, in which case, the user may be required to take
appropriate measures.
Achtung! Dieses ist ein Gerät der Funkstörgrenzwertklasse B. In Wohnbereichen
können bei Betrieb dieses Gerätes Rundfunkstörungen auftreten, in welchen Fällen der
Benutzer für entsprechende Gegenmaßnahmen verantwortlich ist.
Attention! Ceci est un produit de Classe B. Dans un environnement domestique, ce
produit risque de créer des interférences radioélectriques, il appartiendra alors à
l’utilisateur de prendre les mesures spécifiques appropriées.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Korean Compliance
Korean Compliance Statement
1
Taiwan Compliance Statement
This is a Class A product based on the standard of the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and
Inspection (BSMI) CNS 13438, Class A.
Japanese Compliance Statement
This is a Class A product based on the standard of the VCCI Council (VCCI V-3/2008.04). If this
equipment is used in a domestic environment, radio interference may occur, in which case, the
user may be required to take corrective actions.
53
54
Translated caution statements, warning conventions and warning messages
The following caution statements, warning conventions, and warning messages apply to this
product and manual.
Warning Symbol
Hazard Warning
Caution Symbol
Before operating your AJA unit, read the instructions in this document
Warning!
Read and follow all warning notices and instructions marked on the product or
included in the documentation.
Avertissement ! Lisez et conformez-vous à tous les avis et instructions
d'avertissement indiqués sur le produit ou dans la documentation.
Warnung! Lesen und befolgen Sie die Warnhinweise und Anweisungen, die auf dem Produkt
angebracht oder in der Dokumentation enthalten sind.
¡Advertencia! Lea y siga todas las instrucciones y advertencias marcadas en el producto o
incluidas en la documentación.
Aviso! Leia e siga todos os avisos e instruções assinalados no produto ou incluídos na
documentação.
Avviso! Leggere e seguire tutti gli avvisi e le istruzioni presenti sul prodotto o inclusi nella
documentazione.
Warning!
Do not use this device near water and clean only with a dry cloth.
Avertissement! N'utilisez pas cet appareil près de l'eau et nettoyez-le seulement
avec un tissu sec..
Warnung! Das Gerät nicht in der Nähe von Wasser verwenden und nur mit einem trockenen
Tuch säubern.
¡Advertencia! No utilice este dispositivo cerca del agua y límpielo solamente con un paño
seco.
Aviso! Não utilize este dispositivo perto da água e limpe-o somente com um pano seco.
Avviso! Non utilizzare questo dispositivo vicino all'acqua e pulirlo soltanto con un panno
asciutto.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Before operating your AJA
Warning!
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
Avertissement ! Ne bloquez aucune ouverture de ventilation. Suivez les instructions du
fabricant lors de l'installation.
Warnung! Die Lüftungsöffnungen dürfen nicht blockiert werden. Nur gemäß den Anweisungen
des Herstellers installieren.
¡Advertencia! No bloquee ninguna de las aberturas de la ventilación. Instale de acuerdo con las
instrucciones del fabricante.
Aviso! Não obstrua nenhuma das aberturas de ventilação. Instale de acordo com as instruções
do fabricante.
1
Avviso! Non ostruire le aperture di ventilazione. Installare in conformità con le istruzioni del
fornitore.
Warning!
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Avertissement ! N'installez pas l'appareil près d'une source de chaleur telle que des radiateurs,
des bouches d'air de chauffage, des fourneaux ou d'autres appareils (amplificateurs compris)
qui produisent de la chaleur.
Warnung! Nicht in der Nähe von Wärmequellen wie Heizkörpern, Heizregistern, Öfen oder
anderen Wärme erzeugenden Geräten (einschließlich Verstärkern) aufstellen.
¡Advertencia! No instale cerca de fuentes de calor tales como radiadores, registros de calor,
estufas u otros aparatos (incluidos amplificadores) que generan calor.
Aviso! Não instale perto de nenhuma fonte de calor tal como radiadores, saídas de calor, fogões
ou outros aparelhos (incluindo amplificadores) que produzam calor.
Avviso! Non installare vicino a fonti di calore come termosifoni, diffusori di aria calda, stufe o
altri apparecchi (amplificatori compresi) che emettono calore.
Warning!
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the
device has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is
damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the device, the device
has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been
dropped.
Avertissement ! Référez-vous au personnel de service qualifié pour tout entretien. L'entretien
est exigé quand l'appareil a été endommagé de quelque manière que ce soit, par exemple
lorsque le cordon d'alimentation ou la prise sont endommagés, que du liquide a été versé ou
des objets sont tombés dans l'appareil, que l'appareil a été exposé à la pluie ou à l'humidité, ne
fonctionne pas normalement ou est tombé.
Warnung! Das Gerät sollte nur von qualifizierten Fachkräften gewartet werden. Eine Wartung
ist fällig, wenn das Gerät in irgendeiner Weise beschädigt wurde, wie bei beschädigtem
Netzkabel oder Netzstecker, falls Flüssigkeiten oder Objekte in das Gerät gelangen, das Gerät
Regen oder Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt wurde, nicht ordnungsgemäß funktioniert oder fallen
gelassen wurde.
¡Advertencia! Consulte al personal calificado por cuestiones de reparación. El servicio de
reparación se requiere cuando el dispositivo ha recibido cualquier tipo de daño, por ejemplo
cable o espigas dañadas, se ha derramado líquido o se han caído objetos dentro del dispositivo,
el dispositivo ha sido expuesto a la lluvia o humedad, o no funciona de modo normal, o se ha
caído.
Aviso! Remeta todos os serviços de manutenção para o pessoal de assistência qualificado. A
prestação de serviços de manutenção é exigida quando o dispositivo foi danificado mediante
qualquer forma, como um cabo de alimentação ou ficha que se encontra danificado/a, quando
55
56
foi derramado líquido ou caíram objectos sobre o dispositivo, quando o dispositivo foi
exposto à chuva ou à humidade, quando não funciona normalmente ou quando foi deixado
cair.
Avviso! Fare riferimento al personale qualificato per tutti gli interventi di assistenza.
L'assistenza è necessaria quando il dispositivo è stato danneggiato in qualche modo, ad
esempio se il cavo di alimentazione o la spina sono danneggiati, è stato rovesciato del liquido
è stato rovesciato o qualche oggetto è caduto nel dispositivo, il dispositivo è stato esposto a
pioggia o umidità, non funziona correttamente o è caduto.
Caution!
This device is a Class A product. Operation of this equipment in a residential area
is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case users will be required to take
whatever measures may be necessary to correct the interference at their own
expense.
Attention! Le périphérique est un produit de Classe A. Le fonctionnement de cet équipement
dans une zone résidentielle risque de causer des interférences nuisibles, auquel cas
l'utilisateur devra y remédier à ses propres frais.
Achtung! Dies ist ein Gerät der Klasse A. Bei Einsatz des Geräts in Wohngebieten kann es
Störungen des Radio- und Fernsehempfangs verursachen. In diesem Fall muss der Benutzer
alle notwendigen Maßnahmen ergreifen, die möglicherweise nötig sind, um die Störungen
auf eigene Rechnung zu beheben.
¡Precaución! Este es un producto clase A. El uso de este equipo en áreas residenciales puede
causar interferencias nocivas, en cuyo caso, se requerirá que los usuarios tomen cualquier
medida necesaria para corregir la interferencia por cuenta propia.
Cuidado! Este dispositivo é um produto Classe A. Operar este equipamento em uma área
residencial provavelmente causará interferência prejudicial; neste caso, espera-se que os
usuários tomem as medidas necessárias para corrigir a interferência por sua própria conta.
Attenzione! Questo dispositivo è un prodotto di Classe A. Il funzionamento di questo
apparecchio in aree residenziali potrebbe causare interferenze dannose, nel cui caso agli
utenti verrà richiesto di adottare tutte le misure necessarie per porre rimedio alle interferenze
a proprie spese.
Warning!
Disconnect the external AC power supply line cord(s) from the mains power
before moving the unit.
Avertissementþ! Retirez le ou les cordons d’alimentation en CA de la source
d’alimentation principale lorsque vous déplacez l’appareil.
Warnung! Trennen Sie die Wechselstrom-Versorgungskabel vom Netzstrom, bevor Sie das
Gerät verschieben.
¡Advertencia! Cuando mueva la unidad desenchufe de la red eléctrica el/los cable(s) de la
fuente de alimentación CA tipo brick.
Advertência! Remova os cabos CA de alimentação brick da rede elétrica ao mover a unidade.
Avvertenza! Scollegare il cavo dell’alimentatore quando si sposta l’unità.
Hazard Warning!
High Voltage. This situation or condition can cause injury due to electric shock.
Avertissement ! Tension élevée. Cette situation ou condition peut causer des
blessures dues à un choc électrique.
Warnung! Hochspannung. Diese Situation oder Bedingung kann zu Verletzungen durch
Stromschlag führen.
¡Advertencia! Alto voltaje . Esta situación o condición puede causar lesiones debidas a una
descarga eléctrica.
Aviso! Alta Tensão . Esta situação ou condição pode causar danos devido a choques elétricos.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Before operating your AJA
Avviso! Alta tensione. Questa situazione o condizione può causare lesioni a causa di scosse
elettriche.
Warning!
Only use attachments and accessories specified and/or sold by the manufacturer.
Avertissement ! Utilisez seulement les attaches et accessoires spécifiés et/ou
vendus par le fabricant.
Warnung! Verwenden Sie nur Zusatzgeräte und Zubehör angegeben und / oder verkauft
wurde durch den Hersteller.
¡Advertencia! Utilice solamente los accesorios y conexiones especificados y/o vendidos por el
fabricante.
Aviso! Utilize apenas equipamentos/acessórios especificados e/ou vendidos1pelo fabricante.
Avviso! Utilizzare soltanto i collegamenti e gli accessori specificati e/o venduti dal produttore.
Warning!
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A
polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type
plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet,
consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Avertissement ! La sécurité de la prise polarisée ou de la prise de type mise à la terre ne doit en
aucun cas être empêchée de fonctionner. Une prise polarisée a deux broches, l'une étant plus
large que l'autre. Une prise de type mise à la terre a deux broches et une troisième broche pour
la mise à la terre. La broche large ou la troisième broche sont fournies pour votre sécurité. Si la
prise fournie ne s'insère pas dans votre prise femelle, consultez un électricien pour le
remplacement de la prise femelle obsolète.
Warnung! Der Sicherheitszweck des gepolten bzw. Schukosteckers ist zu berücksichtigen. Ein
gepolter Stecker verfügt über zwei Pole, von denen einer breiter als der andere ist. Ein
Schukostecker verfügt neben den zwei Polen noch über einen dritten Pol zur Erdung. Der breite
Pol bzw. der Erdungspol dienen der Sicherheit. Wenn der zur Verfügung gestellte Stecker nicht
in Ihren Anschluss passt, konsultieren Sie einen Elektriker, um den veralteten Anschluss zu
ersetzen.
¡Advertencia! No eche por tierra la finalidad del tipo de enchufe polarizado con conexión a
tierra. Un enchufe polarizado tiene dos espigas, una más ancha que la otra. Un enchufe con
conexión a tierra tiene dos espigas iguales y una tercera espiga que sirve para la conexión a
tierra. La expiga ancha, o la tercera espiga, sirven para su seguridad. Si el enchufe suministrado
no encaja en el tomacorriente, consulte con un electricista para reemplazar el tomacorriente
obsoleto.
Aviso! Não anule a finalidade da segurança da ficha polarizada ou do tipo ligação terra. Uma
ficha polarizada tem duas lâminas sendo uma mais larga do que a outra. Uma ficha do tipo de
ligação à terra tem duas lâminas e um terceiro terminal de ligação à terra. A lâmina larga ou o
terceiro terminal são fornecidos para sua segurança. Se a ficha fornecida não couber na sua
tomada, consulte um electricista para a substituição da tomada obsoleta.
Avviso! Non compromettere la sicurezza della spina polarizzata o con messa a terra. Una spina
polarizzata ha due spinotti, di cui uno più largo. Una spina con messa a terra ha due spinotti e un
terzo polo per la messa a terra. Lo spinotto largo o il terzo polo sono forniti per motivi di
sicurezza. Se la spina fornita non si inserisce nella presa di corrente, contattare un elettricista per
la sostituzione della presa obsoleta.
Warning!
Since the Mains plug is used as the disconnection for the device, it must remain
readily accessible and operable.
Avertissement ! Puisque la prise principale est utilisée pour débrancher l'appareil, elle doit
rester aisément accessible et fonctionnelle.
57
58
Warnung! Da der Netzstecker als Trennvorrichtung dient, muss er stets zugänglich und
funktionsfähig sein.
¡Advertencia! Puesto que el enchufe de la red eléctrica se utiliza como dispositivo de
desconexión, debe seguir siendo fácilmente accesible y operable.
Aviso! Dado que a ficha principal é utilizada como a desconexão para o dispositivo, esta deve
manter-se prontamente acessível e funcional.
Avviso! Poiché il cavo di alimentazione viene usato come dispositivo di sconnessione, deve
rimane prontamente accessibile e operabile.
Warning!
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the device.
Avertissement ! Protégez le cordon d'alimentation pour que l'on ne marche pas dessus ou
qu'on le pince, en particulier au niveau des prises mâles, des réceptacles de convenance, et à
l'endroit où il sort de l'appareil.
Warnung! Es muss verhindert werden, auf das Netzanschlusskabel zu treten oder dieses zu
knicken, besonders an den Steckern, den Steckerbuchsen und an dem Punkt, an dem das
Kabel aus dem Gerät heraustritt.
¡Advertencia! Puesto que el enchufe de la red eléctrica se utiliza como dispositivo de
desconexión, debe seguir siendo fácilmente accesible y operable.
Aviso! Proteja o cabo de alimentação de ser pisado ou de ser comprimido particularmente
nas fichas, em tomadas de parede de conveniência e no ponto de onde sai do dispositivo.
Avviso! Proteggere il cavo di alimentazione in modo che nessuno ci cammini sopra e che non
venga schiacciato soprattutto in corrispondenza delle spine e del punto in cui esce dal
dispositivo.
Warning!
Unplug this device during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of
time.
Avertissement ! Débranchez cet appareil pendant les orages avec éclairsou s'il est inutilisé
pendant de longues périodes.
Warnung! Das Gerät ist bei Gewitterstürmen oder wenn es über lange Zeiträume ungenutzt
bleibt vom Netz zu trennen.
¡Advertencia! Desenchufe este dispositivo durante tormentas eléctricas o cuando no se lo
utilice por largos periodos del tiempo.
Aviso! Desconecte este dispositivo da tomada durante trovoadas ou quando não é utilizado
durante longos períodos de tempo.
Avviso! Utilizzare soltanto i collegamenti e gli accessori specificati e/o venduti dal produttore,
quali il treppiedi e l'esoscheletro.
Warning!
Do not open the chassis. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Opening the
chassis will void the warranty unless performed by an AJA service center or
licensed facility.
Avertissementþ! Ne pas ouvrir le châssis. Aucun élément à l’intérieur du châssis ne peut être
réparé par l’utilisateur. La garantie sera annulée si le châssis est ouvert par toute autre
personne qu’un technicien d’un centre de service ou d’un établissement agréé AJA.
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Before operating your AJA
Warnung! Öffnen Sie das Gehäuse nicht. Keine der Geräteteile können vom Benutzer gewartet
werden. Durch das Öffnen des Gehäuses wird die Garantie hinfällig, es sei denn, solche
Wartungsarbeiten werden in einem AJA-Service-Center oder einem lizenzierten Betrieb
vorgenommen.
¡Advertencia! No abra el chasis. El interior no contiene piezas reparables por el usuario. El abrir
el chasis anulará la garantía a menos que se lo haga en un centro de servicio AJA o en un local
autorizado.
Advertência! Não abra o chassi. Não há internamente nenhuma peça que permita manutenção
pelo usuário. Abrir o chassi anula a garantia, a menos que a abertura seja realizada por uma
central de serviços da AJA ou por um local autorizado.
Avvertenza! Non aprire lo chassis. All’interno non ci sono parti riparabili dall’utente. L’apertura
dello chassis invaliderà la garanzia se non viene effettuata da un centro ufficiale o autorizzato
AJA.
1
59
60
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Index
Index
Control Screen 35, 36
Control Screen Settings 26
Conversion Icons, Control Panel
Conversion Options
2K 4
customer service 45
Symbols
.pkg 13
Numerics
10-bit video 44
8-bit Versus 10-bit Video
9-pin D-connector 50
44
D
A
Analog 4 Channel Balanced/Unbalanced Audio
7
analog audio 36
analog component 34, 35
analog composite 34, 35
Analog Format 36, 37
Analog Out Screen 34
Analog Out Screen Settings 36,
Apple Support 47
Audio 4, 49
Audio Input 31
DB9 7, 11
Default Io HD Output 331
Default Kona Output 26
Digital System 11
drivers 13
E
EBU N10
37
B
Balanced 7
Betacam 8
black burst 8
Black Level 36, 37
Block Diagram Screen
Blue 25
Box 5
25
8
F
Features, KONA 2 software 4
format, primary 8
format, secondary 24
Framebuffer 24
Freerun 28
G
24
C
Cable Connections 7
Cable connector descriptions 7
Cabling the System 11
camcorders 7
CD 5
CD, KONA 2 Software 4
CD-ROM 13
Chassis Connections 11, 12
Color Meanings, Control Panel 25
Component Analog Video Out 11
Component/Composite 8
composite output 34, 35
Configuration 13
configuring output timing 26
Connector Descriptions 7
Connectors 7
Control Panel Basics 23
Control Panel, AJA Software 4
Control Panel, KONA 2 23
Control Panel, Tabbed Screens 25
Genlock 28
Genlock and Your System
Getting Help 46
22
H
hardware and software requirements
HDMI Screen 33
Hold Last Application 28
house reference 8
house reference sync 11
house sync 22
I
Icons 25
Icons, Control Panel 25
Info Screen 42
Input Pass through 27
Input Screen 30
Input Screen Settings 30
Input/Output 25
Installation Overview 9
Installation Software CD-Rom
Installer Screen 14
Installing Io Software 13
5
6
61
62
K
KONA 2 Software 13
KONA 2 will synchronize program video
28
L
Lock Input Audio Gain To Unity 36
Log On Authenticate Prompt 14
M
Machine Control 7
Machine Control, pinout 50
Manual 8
minimum hardware and software requirements 6
Monitor Audio 36, 37
Multiple AJA Products 2
O
OS X installer files
13
P
pinout, RS-422 D-connector 50
Presets 40
Primary Format 24
Primary format 8
Primary/Secondary conversion
XENA 2K 4
primary/secondary formats
Machina 3
problem symptoms 45
Problems, what to do 45
problems, what to do if you encounter
T
45
Q
QuickTime™ Drivers, AJA KONA 2 4
R
RCA connector pair, K-Box configuration 36
Recommended System Requirements 6
Red 25
Ref In 28
Ref Loop 11
Reference Video 8
Requirements 6
Requirements, System 6
RP 188 definition 39
RP-188 38
RP-188 Timecode 38
RS422 7
RS-422, Sony 9-pin protocol. 9-pin D-connector
pinout 50
S
SDI cables
11
set up 9
shipping 5
Shipping Box Contents 5
signal conversion2K 4
SMPTE protocol 7
SMPTE RP 188 39
snapshot, Control Panel settings 40
Software 4
Software CD 13
software files that have been installed 42
Software License Agreement Screen 15
software requirements 6
software updates 46
software, 3rd-party 23
Sony 7
Support 46
support 46
Support, 3rd-party software 4
Symptoms, problem 45
sync generator 8
synchronize program video 28
synchronizing other video equipment 8
system configuration, Control Panel 23
System Connections 11, 12
system interconnections 11
System software 13
Tabbed Windows 25
Timecode Offset 39
Timecode Screen 38
Timecode Screen Settings 38
Timing adjustment, Control Panel 28
Troubleshooting 45
troubleshooting 45
typical system interconnections 11
U
unpack 5
Updating Software 46
Use 41
user and password 14
User Bits, RP-188 38
V
Video Input 49
Video Monitor 11
Video Output 49
video path 25
VTR 11
VTR RS-422 Control Port
Y
Y/R-Y/B-Y
8
7
Io Express Installation and Operation Guide — Index
Yellow 25
YPbPr 8
YUV 8
1
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64